Why Your Garbage Disposal Isn't Working (And How To Fix It)

Garbage disposals fail in three ways, and each one points to a different fix.

It hums but nothing turns

A hum means the motor has power but the grinding plate cannot move. Something — a bottle cap, a peach pit, a spoon — is wedged between the impellers and the shredder ring. Turn the disposal off at the switch, use the hex wrench in the bottom of the unit to rock the plate free, remove the object, then press the red reset button underneath. Never put your hand into the chamber.

It is completely silent

Silence means no power reaching the motor. Start with the reset button, then the breaker, then the wall switch. If all three are good, the motor or the switch has failed and the unit needs service.

It leaks

Where it leaks decides whether you repair or replace. A leak at the sink flange is a reseal with fresh plumber's putty. A leak at the dishwasher inlet or drain elbow is a gasket. A leak from the bottom shell means the internal seal has failed and water is in the motor housing — that unit needs to be replaced.

What kills disposals early

Fibrous vegetables, coffee grounds, grease, eggshells and bones are the usual culprits. Run cold water before, during and 15 seconds after each use, and grind citrus peels occasionally to keep it clean.

Pro tips for fixing a jammed garbage disposal

Avoid jams with safe practices

"One of the most common reasons a garbage disposal fails is a jam or overload," says Alliance Appliance Repair. "If the unit stops working, hit the reset button first—but always cut the power before checking for blockages. Never put fibrous foods down the drain, and run cold water to flush everything through. Good habits can seriously extend your disposal's lifespan."

Our technicians shared this advice with Redfin for their guide, Why Your Garbage Disposal Isn't Working and How to Fix It.

If your disposal is jammed, leaking or dead, call Alliance Appliance Repair at (405) 200-1490 — most disposal calls are solved in a single visit.